.
Mr. Deen, who led the successful hosting of the first-ever African Paralympic Games in Ghana, was given the renewed mandate to continue his transformative agenda for the continent. Ghana recorded another key victory as Mr. Ignatius Elletey was also elected as Secretary General of the Committee.
Other elected executives for the next four years include First Vice President Dr. Hayat Khattab, Second Vice President El Aouni Hamid, Treasurer Suleiman Isah, Secretary General Ignatius Elletey, along with seven regional and zonal representatives.
SOLIDARITY MESSAGES
Minister for Sports and Recreation, Hon. Kofi Iddie Adams commended para-athletes across Africa for their resilience; “across the continent, para-athletes continue to overcome structural, social, and financial barriers. Yet they rise to compete and inspire. Their achievements remind us that disability is not inability. Inclusion in sports is not charity, it is justice. If we truly believe in inclusion, then it must be backed by structure, investment, and deliberate policy action at the highest levels, from national governments to continental bodies. Gatherings such as this General Assembly are crucial because they move us from visibility to actual institutional progress.”
Ghana Olympic Committee President, Mr. Richard Akpokavie also praised the Committee; "we at the GOC and IOC recognize your role in identifying talent and nurturing para-athletes to break barriers and set records on the global stage. Despite challenges, you continue to produce remarkable results. We appreciate your dedication and salute your efforts.”
ACP PRESIDENT SAMSON DEEN’S ACCEPTANCE ADDRESS
In his remarks, President Samson Deen expressed gratitude for the renewed confidence placed in him and his colleagues; "we started this journey with the aim of strengthening the administrative structure of the African Paralympic movement, and we have indeed made progress. However, the task ahead is demanding, and success will depend on collective effort and commitment.”
He emphasized the need to operate the committee with professionalism and strategic financial planning; "there are no allowances in this system. The Committee relies mainly on membership fees and grants from the International Paralympic Committee. We must, therefore, adopt a results-oriented approach that reforms our structures, enhances operations, and creates opportunities for all member countries.”
President Deen also announced major upcoming initiatives; the country that meets the hosting requirements will be given the nod for the 2027 African Paralympic Games. Additionally, the West African Para Games will be held in Ogun State, Nigeria, this December, with the hope that other regions will also host future editions. Those elected today must be ready to work because this mandate is about delivering impact.”
DISTINGUISHED ATTENDEES
The 2025 General Assembly was attended by:
Ghana’s Chief of Staff, Honorable Julius Debrah
French Ambassador to Ghana, H.E. Yara Imela Ile
President of the International Blind Sports Federation, Mr. Elza Rahim
President of International Cricket, Ms. Shobana Imam
Ghana’s Minister for Sports and Recreation, Hon. Kofi Iddie Adams
Ghana Olympic Committee President, Mr. Richard Akpokavie
President of the Africa and Ghana Armwrestling Federation, Mr. Charles Osei Asibey
Director General of the National Sports Authority, Mr. Yaw Ampofo Ankrah
Paralympic national leaders, athletes, and delegates from across Africa.
By; Victoria Kwofie
